Mafume embroiled in luxury hostel controversy

Zim Now Reporter

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume has found himself at the center of a growing controversy surrounding a luxury hostel in Belvedere, intended to accommodate over 60 Harare Institute of Technology students. Mafume's troubles began when he implicated his wife in the inspection furore, claiming she was overseeing the construction of the hostel.

However, a closer look at the inspection report reveals some alarming discrepancies. The report shows six visits to the property in a single month, sometimes just three days apart, all documented with the same penmanship. Tapiwa Fresh Godzi, leading the commission's evidence, questioned the rapid pace of construction, asking, "I wonder at what rate the builders are working. Inspection after inspection every three days. Is that reasonable?" Mafume maintained that it was reasonable, but his demeanor betrayed his confidence.

Further investigation revealed that the City Council had no record of Mafume paying for any of the six inspections. Sources close to the matter stated that Mafume himself lacks receipts to prove payment. This raises serious questions about Mafume's involvement in the project and his potential abuse of power.

Mafume's troubles deepened when he admitted to not obtaining council approval to change the property's use from residential to commercial. "The change of use plan does not exist. That one is not there," he said, visibly nervous